Illuminated plinth: choose the material and make it yourself

To ensure comfortable and safe movement through rooms at night without turning on general lighting, you can use a backlit floor plinth by connecting a permanent switch or even a motion sensor to it. Such a device can be installed in the toilet, bedroom, children's room, and, of course, in the hallway. In addition, the light illuminating the flooring is an original design solution that will add special notes to the interior of the rooms.

Skirting board with backlight

This type of lighting is often used not only in residential premises, but also in public buildings, for example, in hotels, cinemas and restaurants. The intensity of the emitted flux is quite enough to illuminate the road in the right direction. And at the same time, significant energy savings are ensured, since LED strips or cords are usually used in skirting boards.

What types of designs are there?

Regardless of the manufacturer, all produced models are divided into two main types: ceiling and floor. Let's look at each option in more detail.

Ceiling

Properly placed lighting sources can transform even the gloomiest interior of a room.
A luminous plinth on the ceiling is one of them. Belongs to the category of new products. Suitable for any style. Installation is carried out in two ways:

1. Special baguettes are purchased, equipped with a niche for installing the tape. The parts are in the shape of a square or semicircle. Mounted on the wall. You can find ready-made designs on sale. However, experts recommend installing LEDs yourself. If difficulties arise during the work process, detailed step-by-step instructions posted on the Internet will come to the rescue. If it is difficult to connect two adjacent elements, you can solve the problem using tape soldering.
2. A review of reviews shows that this installation method is considered the easiest, however, it cannot boast of sophistication. To work, you need to purchase a regular classic baguette and install it at a short distance from the ceiling. The remaining free space serves as a location for lighting fixtures. What should you pay attention to? There is a significant drawback of this installation method. LEDs will be visible to the naked eye.

Almost all types of fillets can be used to install contour lighting. However, experts advise using special products. Their distinctive feature is the presence of a recess on the inside. There you can place a light source and lay wires for subsequent connection of light bulbs.

The light source is an LED strip. It has a number of advantages compared to conventional light bulbs:

• minimum parameters;
• diodes cannot cause melting of the foam baseboard, since they do not heat up much;
• a step-down transformer is required for connection;
• safety for others;
• connecting the tape at home can be done with your own hands, without the involvement of specialists;
• minimal power consumption.

Floor-standing

The designs are created to decorate the interior and provide comfortable movement in low light conditions. They allow you to make the floor finish complete and unusual. The methods for creating backlight are as follows:

Material used	Description
Duralight tube	Elastic tube made of polyvinyl chloride. LEDs are placed on it at the same distance. The main task of the tube is to protect the LEDs from negative external influences. According to buyers, such devices can be installed in open space and in unheated objects.
LED Strip Light	The main advantage is minimal electrical energy consumption. The best for self-installation. Even a beginner in this matter can handle the work. Has a significant service life. Completely safe for others. If it is not clear how to install, the instructions supplied by the manufacturer will come to the rescue. It is enough to place the tape in a special hole located in the baseboard. The light will be soft and diffused. Acts as auxiliary lighting.
Neon cord	Elastic tube in various shades. Gas is pumped inside. The ends are equipped with electrodes. The glow is continuous. Low power consumption. The glow is intense. The room becomes original and unique. Features of floor lighting in this way are the decoration of large rooms (living rooms, halls, shopping and exhibition halls, and so on).

The advantages of this type of lighting are:

• highlighting any interesting element in the room;
• improving the appearance of the object;
• giving the interior uniqueness and originality;
• increasing the security level of the room used;
• alternative to a night light;
• masks cracks;
• adjusting the volume of the room upward;
• suitable for installation in houses where small children live;
• the ability to create interesting and multi-level lighting;
• lighting areas where ceiling or wall lights cannot be used;
• built-in structures;
• can be equipped with a backlight sensor.

There are few negative points, but they are worth mentioning:

• if you make a mistake when choosing or purchasing a low-quality budget model, there is a risk of fire;
• when making products from poor materials, it can harm pets living in the apartment;
• tubes and tapes are classified as economical, however, energy consumption will increase, albeit slightly;
• In rooms with high humidity (bathrooms), experts do not recommend installing backlighting;
• if the product is defective or damaged, water may get inside during the cleaning process;
• When purchasing inexpensive designs, they can heat up.

Not only living spaces, but also staircases and thresholds are equipped with floor lighting. This will make their operation safer at night.

Why is this necessary?

Let's start by briefly going over the pros. If you are already firmly convinced that there will be backlighting, then you can safely skip this point. I will write it specifically for those who have not yet decided, and I will return to you a little lower.

List of advantages:

• No longer do you have to turn on the light to run to the kitchen for a late-night snack.
• The chances of hitting your little finger on the corner of the furniture again become vanishingly insignificant.
• It is beautiful. Although no, not like that. It's amazing! Illuminating the baseboard even from the most gray and nondescript room will make a stylish room in which it is pleasant to just be.
• This is a wonderful alternative to a night light; which is especially true if you have small children who don't like to be left in the dark.
• You can choose lighting accents and emphasize those interior details that you want.
• And you will have the opportunity to save a little on your electricity bill. This is not so clear and, of course, depends on the volume and type of lighting, but more on that later.

Materials for making floor skirting boards

The range of products presented in stores is impressive. Everyone's selection criteria are different. Which product is best to buy depends on many factors. Some carefully study the characteristics, others are interested in how much it costs, and others look at photos of the finished work. How to choose the right product? Experts advise not to discount an important criterion – the material of manufacture. All popular models produced are made from the following materials:

1. Tree. The average price is high. It is highly flammable, but should not cause any problems if installed and used correctly. Can be homemade.
2. PVC. The most common and popular option. Has a huge number of textures. Inexpensive product. Equipped with a special insert for mounting the tape.
3. Made of aluminum. It is in high demand among domestic craftsmen. The appearance is attractive. Installs easily and simply. No specialist help required. However, there are certain nuances. The cost of some elements exceeds their wooden counterparts. Fastening is carried out exclusively on high-quality prepared walls.
4. Polyurethane. Every year the material is gaining popularity. Suitable for all types of finishes. Has a lot of positive qualities. There are no problems during operation. The light source is attached to the top of the part. Manipulations should be carried out carefully and as carefully as possible.
5. From MDF. It will be an excellent replacement for natural wood. The appearance resembles a real tree. Even from a short distance it is quite difficult to distinguish.
6. Polystyrene. Budget models. They are lightweight and easy to process. They provide the opportunity to bring any design solutions to life. The presence of increased fragility does not allow them to be installed on floors.

Where can I buy a suitable design? There are several options. You can visit a specialized retail outlet, visually examine the assortment, communicate with a professional sales manager, and get practical advice from him. To save free time, effort and money, you can order goods online in an online store, having first checked the supplier for integrity. Which company's products are better depends on personal preference.

Main conclusions

How to make floor lighting in floor skirting boards is more or less clear. But it should be noted that it is more profitable to buy ready-made products. To work with them, you need to consult an experienced specialist who knows how to properly cut and connect individual elements. If you assemble the system yourself, you need to take care of its tightness.

A luminous baseboard not only complements the interior favorably, but can also be useful, especially on stairs. To add visual effects and save money, you can complement the system with a dimmer that allows you to adjust the intensity of the glow.

Plastic products bend easily, so they can also be installed on walls with uneven surfaces. There are different requirements for the floor. If it is not level, the light from the transparent baseboard highlights all the imperfections.

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How to connect the tape and mount the plinth

Even a beginner can do the installation job. Much more difficult to deal with the connection. For manipulations you will need the following tools:

• pencil;
• ruler;
• roulette;
• soldering iron;
• dowels;
• hammer drill or electric drill;
• scissors;
• knife;
• screwdriver;
• screwdriver;
• hacksaw for metal;
• pliers;
• hammer;
• construction hairdryer

In addition to the baseboard and the elements selected for it, as well as the LED strip with connection devices, you must have with you:

• electrical tape;
• acrylic glue;
• acrylic strips or profiles;
• insulating heat-shrinkable tubes;
• mounting wires;
• dowel nails.

The procedure is as follows:

1. The main point is not to make a mistake with the purchase. Everything must first be calculated so that there is enough material for the work. The perimeter of the room is determined. This indicator will be the length. When purchasing, you need to pay attention to the quality of the product. There should be no visible damage or defects. You need to check the quality factor of the mechanism that covers the screen.
2. Fastening skirting boards to the floor is most often done using 3.5 * 25 mm self-tapping screws or 6 mm dowels.
3. It is advisable to cut materials at a retail outlet. Connectors, corners, and plugs are also purchased there.
4. First, skirting boards for LED lighting are installed. Parts are installed that do not need to be cut. Then small pieces for inserts are cut off. It is worth making sure that the ends have right angles. The cutting area is carefully cleared of burrs.
5. You need to drill holes in the walls. This is quite complex and painstaking work. If the walls are smooth, then the holes are made at a distance of 0.5 meters from each other. The distance from the floor is calculated to the middle of the channel cable. If you have walls made of plasterboard installed on a metal profile, if the hole gets into the metal, it is better to use a self-tapping screw.
6. Experts do not recommend drilling floor planks. It is better to resort to the help of an awl. You can purchase it or make it yourself at home. All you have to do is take a screwdriver and sharpen its blade. Before making a puncture, you need to attach the structure to the wall and make the appropriate marks with a pencil so that they coincide with the holes.
7. After installing the floor planks, you need to assemble the lighting. To do this, you should use the diagram. For ease of assembly, select a table or other horizontal, flat surface.
8. The adhesive layer of the tape is exposed and glued inside the channel. If there is a need for extension, you need to use soldering or specially purchased connectors.
9. The final touch is insulation work. For this purpose, heat shrink tubing is used. A transparent insert is installed.
10. The control panel and hidden lighting switch are installed in the wall. The most convenient way is remote control. The remote control can be located anywhere.

Light sources: choosing the right one and features

When choosing lighting fixtures, you must follow certain rules. Lamps must have a strong body, shine brightly with minimal power consumption, and have a degree of protection IP65 - IP68. The most modern lamps are suitable, made in the form of strips that are easy to install in the cable channel.

LED Strip Light

The role of luminous elements is most often performed by LED strips, which are mounted along the entire length or in individual sections. This is an economical option with low heat dissipation and can provide high-quality lighting. The main advantage is the ability to choose a color with many variations.

He can be:

• natural;
• cold;
• warm.

If desired, you can find red, orange, blue, and green light bulbs on the Internet. There are stores offering floor planks of various colors, made to order.

LEDs are classified by brand, color, supply voltage, and bulb size. For hidden lighting, it is advisable to buy a self-adhesive strip. It is sold in pieces of 5 meters, the diodes vary in power. Experts advise connecting 2 tapes to one power supply.

In residential premises, 12 V units and SMD 5050 light bulbs are used. The diode size is 5 mm, power up to 14 W/m. The power of the power supply for a 10 m long LED strip is at least 90 W. He is small, so he hides easily.

Reference! For a small room (for example, a hallway in a city apartment), a 40 W adapter placed under the baseboard is sufficient.

Neon cord

Neon cord is a white or colored elastic tube filled with gas. Electrodes are installed at the ends.

The main difference from the LED strip is the continuous glow. This is also an economical option that requires a minimum of energy.

The lighting is quite intense, giving the interior individuality. Most often, neon strips are used in living rooms, spacious halls, and on staircases.

Duralight lamps

Duralight is also a tube, but it contains small light bulbs. In modern design these are LEDs. The tube is made of PVC and protects the diodes from mechanical influences and moisture, which allows you to use duralight outdoors (on external stairs, in gazebos, on terraces and verandas). The glow is bright but calm, energy consumption is minimal, the service life is quite long, and the choice of shades is large.

Rating of high-quality backlit skirting boards up to 3000 rubles

IL11 NMC

This popular model is produced in Belgium. It is based on the use of high-strength material – duropolymer. The surface of the product is smooth. The product is made in a classic style. A characteristic feature is the presence of a gap intended for LED bulbs. The illuminated design looks stylish in any interior and can become its highlight. Declared dimensions: 80x20x2000 mm.

The average price of a new product is 2,528 rubles.

plinth IL11 NMC

Advantages:

• niche for built-in LED light bulbs;
• strength;
• wear resistance;
• unlimited service life;
• stylish appearance.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Profilpas Metal Line 88/6-78310

This design is in high demand among domestic consumers, largely due to its stylish design. A characteristic feature of the product is the possibility of arranging lighting, which will become the highlight of any interior. It fits perfectly with both drywall and plaster. The structure consists of a base made of high-quality aluminum alloy and a special wooden insert. The model will fit perfectly into the existing interior. The base should be secured when working with rough finishing. After plastering the work surface and laying the floor, a decorative insert is installed. Declared dimensions: 2000x60x15 mm. Produced in Italy.

How much does the product cost? The purchase will cost 2190 rubles.

plinth Profilpas Metal Line 88/6-78310

Advantages:

• For installation you will need special glue;
• high build quality;
• the presence of decorative inserts;
• numerous positive reviews;
• ease of installation;
• stylish appearance.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Progress LED PKLEDAA 80 PROSKIRTING ISP

This popular design is based on the use of innovative technologies. Inside the case there is a cable channel made of anodized aluminum. Built-in LEDs are used for illumination. It is used to illuminate hard-to-reach areas, as well as entrances to premises, corridors to office premises. Emits diffused light. You can find several variants of this design on the shelves:

1. Non-removable self-adhesive product with a diffuser.
2. A model that requires silicone or special glue to attach.

High-quality aluminum is used to manufacture the profile. Declared dimensions: 2000x80x10 mm. Suitable for both floor and ceiling. Produced in Italy.

Average price – 1995 rubles.

plinth Progress LED PKLEDAA 80 PROSKIRTING ISP

Advantages:

• high degree of reliability;
• ease of installation;
• suitable for suspended ceilings;
• affordable purchase;
• value for money;
• attractive appearance;
• versatility;
• practicality;
• numerous positive reviews.

Flaws:

• not identified.

ORAC DECOR SX179F FLEXIBLE 29X97 MM

This popular model is made on the basis of duropolymer - a practical and durable material. The composition belongs to the category of moisture-resistant polymers that can be used in rooms with any level of humidity. A great way to update a boring interior and highlight hard-to-reach areas. The surface is primed and ready for subsequent painting. Produced in Belgium. Declared dimensions: 2000x97x29 mm.

Cost – 1708 rubles.

plinth ORAC DECOR SX179F FLEXIBLE 29X97 MM

Advantages:

• the surface can be painted in any color;
• 20 year manufacturer's warranty;
• flexible plinth;
• ease of installation;
• does not require careful care;
• strength of the materials used;
• numerous positive reviews.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Examples in the interior

Curtain lighting is a practical and stylish solution. It will suit a room of any purpose and size.

Rating of high-quality backlit skirting boards up to 1000 rubles

LICORN 14.5X104.6 MM FOR LIGHTING WITH INSERT 12.5X70 MM

The product from a time-tested domestic manufacturer is characterized by an excellent price-quality ratio. The surface is white, primed. Ready for subsequent painting. Declared dimensions: 104x14x2050 mm. High-quality aluminum alloy is used for manufacturing. The base is made of MDF. The manufacturer provides a 20-year product warranty. Produced in Russia.

Average price – 986 rubles.

plinth LICORN 14.5X104.6 MM FOR LIGHTING WITH INSERT 12.5X70 MM

Advantages:

• Excellent value for money and quality;
• numerous positive reviews;
• brand guarantee;
• safety;
• the surface is ready for painting;
• safety;
• stylish appearance.

Flaws:

• not identified.

ALP-G80-LF Fezard

This design is built under plaster or plasterboard sheets. Such a device will not only perfectly cope with the indicated functions, but will also become a key decorative element in the room. High-quality aluminum alloy is used for manufacturing. Fasteners are made of the same material. For installation, it is recommended to use liquid nails and double-sided adhesive tape. The delivery set includes a transparent or matte diffuser. The surface is anodized silver, but can be painted in a different color. Declared dimensions: 2500x80x15 mm. Produced in Russia.

How much does the product cost? The purchase will cost 900 rubles.

plinth ALP-G80-LF Fezard

Advantages:

• build quality;
• safety;
• unlimited service life;
• ease of installation;
• ease of care;
• practicality;
• stylish appearance.

Flaws:

• not identified.

PN 021 LED Eurowood

This design can be used for both ceiling and floor installations. A universal device that has not only decorative functions. A characteristic feature is the presence of an LED strip that illuminates even the most difficult to reach areas. Product from a time-tested domestic manufacturer. Declared dimensions: 2000x17x16 mm. The surface is smooth, made of MDF. Suitable for subsequent painting. Produced in Russia.

Cost – 870 rub.

plinth PN 021 LED Evrowood

Advantages:

• numerous positive reviews;
• appearance;
• manufacturer's warranty;
• copes well with the designated functions;
• surface ready for painting;
• safety;
• ease of installation.

Flaws:

• not identified.

FEZARD ALP-C65-LED SILVER 24X65 MM

This popular model is in high demand among European consumers due to its stylish appearance and affordable price. The design is suitable for arranging not only residential but also office premises. An excellent solution for corridors and stairs. High-quality aluminum alloy is used for manufacturing. Declared dimensions: 2500x655x24 mm. For subsequent installation, special fasteners or clips are required. The design is a boot with a pendant. The manufacturer provides a guarantee for the skirting boards, which indicates the high quality of the supplied products. Produced in Russia.

Average price – 780 rub.

plinth FEZARD ALP-C65-LED SILVER 24X65 MM

Advantages:

• numerous positive reviews;
• ease of installation;
• stylish design;
• manufacturer's warranty;
• design features.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Products for ceilings

Professional designers believe that proper placement of lighting sources is the key to transforming even the most boring interior. Therefore, illuminated ceiling fillets have become permanent elements of many modern design styles. In addition, this option, in addition to its decorative role, also plays a practical role, being a source of lighting.

For ceiling placement of lighting, two methods are used:

1. For work, special baguettes are used, which have a niche for integrating the tape. They look like semicircular or square objects that can only be attached to a wall surface. This option can be sold ready-made, however, for greater efficiency of all lighting, it is preferable to install them yourself. Some problems may arise when connecting a pair of adjacent parts, but this can all be solved by soldering the tape itself. The main feature of such products is that they are installed at some distance from the ceiling, but due to their special shape, they create the visual illusion of completeness.
2. The other method seems somewhat simple and does not differ in any sophistication. For installation, a standard traditional baguette is used, which is simply mounted at a short distance directly from the ceiling. The light source will be installed in the resulting gap. However, this option has a significant disadvantage - the sources will be visually noticeable, which can significantly weaken the lighting effect.

From here it is clear that for each specific situation it will be necessary to select the production material. At the same time, it is worth considering that ceiling plinths with LED lighting must fully comply with fire safety requirements. Therefore, it is better to give preference to products made from PVC, polystyrene or polyurethane.

IMPORTANT! You should always pay attention to the light transmission of all parts of the baguette. The best fillets are considered to be products that are not particularly transparent.

Rating of high-quality backlit skirting boards up to 700 rubles

PRO DESIGN 323 HIDDEN ANODIZED 12X80 MM

Pro Design specializes in the manufacture of high quality skirting boards designed for concealed installation. The structures are mounted directly into the wall. A product from a time-tested domestic manufacturer can have either a treated or anodized surface, or a regular one. The company also produces special inserts from MDF. Their surface can be ready for painting or primed. High-quality aluminum alloy is used for manufacturing. Declared dimensions: 2700x80x12 mm. For subsequent installation you will need self-tapping screws or special dowel nails. Produced in Russia.

Average price – 699 rubles.

skirting board PRO DESIGN 323 HIDDEN ANODIZED 12X80 MM

Advantages:

• 20 year manufacturer's warranty;
• stylish design;
• numerous positive reviews;
• build quality;
• ease of installation and subsequent maintenance.

Flaws:

• not identified.

FINITURA DECOR R9-VLED IN YOUR COLOR ACCORDING TO RAL/NCS WITH BACKLIGHT 16X100 MM

This company specializes in the production of high-quality profiles from solid wood, MDF and veneer. The first option belongs to the category of expensive, and is not in deserved demand among domestic consumers, despite the fact that it is considered a durable and practical material. Not only the arching, but also the appearance of the product depends on the species used. On other options there are special notches that cease to be visible after the product is bent. Declared dimensions: 2440x100x16 mm. For subsequent installation you will need liquid nails or special glue. MDF is used for production. Produced in Russia.

Cost – 660 rubles.

plinth FINITURA DECOR R9-VLED IN YOUR COLOR ACCORDING to RAL/NCS WITH LIGHTING 16X100 MM

Advantages:

• 15 year manufacturer's warranty;
• color – ivory;
• practicality;
• multifunctionality;
• ease of installation.

Flaws:

• not identified.

PN101 LED Evrowood 100×16 mm

This type of design is characterized by the presence of hidden lighting. The manufacturer managed to achieve this through the use of LED strips, which are placed inside a special cavity in the baseboard. To avoid mistakes when choosing, it should be noted that the power supply and strip with light bulbs are purchased separately. It is recommended to give preference to a product that is characterized by the presence of 120 diodes located on a meter strip. It is based on the use of MDF housing, which is classified as safe. The surface is primed and ready for subsequent painting. Declared dimensions: 2000x100x16 mm. The profile is not flexible, so it should not be used in conjunction with suspended ceilings. Produced in Russia.

How much does the product cost? The purchase will cost 645 rubles.

plinth PN101 LED Evrowood 100×16 mm

Advantages:

• manufacturer's warranty;
• numerous positive reviews;
• safety;
• Excellent value for money and quality;
• stylish appearance;
• the surface is ready for painting.

Flaws:

• not identified.

SMARTPROFILE GLOSS 80M WHITE MDF 80X16 MM

This design belongs to the popular Gloss line. The basis is the use of high quality MDF. Can be installed on the floor or wall. The surface is white, glossy. The profile can vary, as can the height, allowing you to make a choice based on personal preference. This illuminated plinth will be an excellent decoration for both residential and office space. It is recommended to install such products along corridors and stairs. In this way, the risk of injury can be minimized. The products comply with established quality standards in the European Union. Declared dimensions: 2400x80x16 mm. Produced in Russia. For subsequent installation, you will need a set of special fasteners or clips. The manufacturer's warranty is 15 years.

Cost – 350 rub.

plinth SMARTPROFILE GLOSS 80M WHITE MDF 80X16 MM

Advantages:

• high-quality, natural raw materials;
• application of modern technologies;
• high level of security;
• compliance with European quality standards;
• stylish design;
• ease of installation.

Flaws:

• not identified.

Underwater rocks

Let's still go over a little of those little things that I so diligently avoided mentioning.

Cons of backlighting

Are there really any downsides? Yes, I have. And you won't like this minus. What I'm talking about? About dust. Once you have the baseboards illuminated, you will see every speck of dust on the floor, and your hands will naturally reach for a broom and mop. Only a robot vacuum cleaner can alleviate your suffering, and even then it will not get rid of it completely. I warned.

And there's something else. Perhaps this is even worth highlighting separately.

Safety

Yes, it is important. Not all lighting is good. And here I can give you two good pieces of advice:

1. Firstly , no lighting in the bathrooms. Yes, of course, you can find excellent insulated baseboards and the same LEDs. But it's still not worth it. In the end, there are more interesting finishing options for bathrooms than some kind of lighting - just the choice of tiles is worth it!
2. Secondly , take the choice of lighting and the baseboards themselves as seriously as possible. If you decide to get involved in this, don’t skimp on the little things.

Let me just scare you a little about what choosing low-quality materials can lead to, and you yourself decide that you definitely don’t need it:

• Fire may occur. I don't think it's necessary to talk about the consequences.
• If heated excessively, PVC can be toxic. This is dangerous for both animals and people. You are unlikely to be able to avoid using polyvinyl chloride.

Therefore, use only high-quality lighting, original adapters, and if you find it difficult to install all this stuff, trust the professionals.

Finishing touches

Modern renovations are rarely complete without interesting design finds, and decorative lighting opens up great prospects in interior design. This includes zoning, accents, auxiliary light, highlighting, and the ability to dim some details.

Skirting board for hidden lighting for several sources

In addition to regular skirting boards, there are special models in which spotlights can be built in and at the same time hide other luminous elements. Don't forget about lighting the floor plinth. Don’t be afraid to combine several options at once; this will help create a special atmosphere and highlight all the advantages of the room.

LED plinth for floor

Options

Lighting without replacing the baseboard

So, you need a backlit skirting board, but you already have a regular skirting board that you don't want to change, but want to know more? I'm here to tell you more. Of the variety of store solutions, it is worth highlighting two groups: LEDs and flexible neon.

Light Emitting Diodes (LED)

This is a simple, cheap and versatile option. They are presented in the form of tapes that are easily attached to any surface. The peculiarity lies in the fact that such a tape will produce directional light, which means that they can glare, reflect and distract attention to themselves. Available in different versions with different LED densities and backlight intensity.

Or a neon cord is, as it were, not quite the neon to which we are accustomed. Those. it is, of course, called neon, but in reality it is not. This is rather a neon design, because from the point of view of design features, these are the same LEDs covered with flexible PVC tubes. It differs from duralight in that the tubes are matte or even filled with special silicone.

What is the difference between flexible neon and conventional LEDs? It gives less bright and harsh, but warmer, uniform and diffused light. It has more visual design options, mounting options, etc.

Neither LEDs nor flexible neon have any pros and cons that deserve special attention. Flexible neon, of course, costs more, but you are unlikely to pay attention to it. Therefore, the choice of one type of lighting or another depends solely on your visual preferences and the overall style of the interior. However, I would not recommend that you use regular LEDs in rooms where there are a lot of mirror or glare surfaces.

Ready-made skirting boards with built-in lighting

Skirting board with grooves for tape

This is a ready-made solution. The grooves can be either open or closed (usually the same matte polyvinyl chloride that is used in the manufacture of flexible neon). And you determine the color and density of the LED strip yourself.

Manufacturers of such skirting boards advise using about 100 LEDs per meter of skirting board. But this does not limit you at all. You can use any number of LEDs of any brightness - everything is at your discretion.

A huge selection of various form factors, finishing options and designs - you will certainly find something to your taste if you want this option.

As with conventional skirting boards, a choice of materials is offered:

• PVC is simple and cheap;
• polyurethane is a fairly popular and moderately durable material;
• wood, cork, MDF - less common, because it is still a fire hazard, but it does occur;
• metal is reliable and extremely durable.

In general, the option of replacing the baseboard with a specialized baseboard with grooves for lighting is exactly the option that I would recommend to you. With it you can achieve the most organic and eye-pleasing light.

Floating Wall Effect

There is another type of hidden plinth - built-in, creating the effect of floating walls. This is an L-shaped metal profile on which sheets of plasterboard, MDF, wall panels and other sheathing materials are supported. A small mounting flange (3 mm high) covers the joints, which gives the overall structure a neat appearance.

Skirting boards of this kind are made of aluminum with an anodized coating, which protects the metal from oxidation and other aggressive influences. Thanks to this, the effect of floating walls can be created not only inside the house, but also outside, for example, when decorating entrance lobbies, gazebos and terraces.

The plinth is installed after the flooring is laid, but before the walls are covered. The metal strip is attached to the wall using screws or glue (to improve adhesion, the “wrong” side of the profile has a special corrugation). If the joint between the edge of the profile and the sheathing turns out to be sloppy, it is sealed with putty, and after it hardens, the finishing of the walls begins.

Important

! The floor covering should extend under the plinth profile by at least 3-5 mm.

The pit formed by the plinth can be covered with a decorative insert, thereby forming the same plinth for hidden installation, or you can install LED lighting.

Instead of an epilogue

Based on the analysis of the market for the materials in question, it was established that certain types of ceiling skirting boards are not so easy to find. This is especially true for models that can work with neon tubes. Regarding the presented manufacturers, they are equally (both Russian and foreign) located in all price categories. It is gratifying to note that domestic products are in no way inferior in quality to foreign ones, and their cost is much lower than that of the latter. At the same time, it is worth noting that the unit of measurement for all skirting boards is the linear meter; it is simply impossible to find versions with solid long dies on sale. The standard length of the die is 2 meters. To summarize, it must be said that it is better to entrust the installation process to a professional, especially when it comes to installing neon lighting sources.